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crispy sesame garlic tofu stir fry

crispy sesame garlic tofu stir fry

👨‍🍳 Chefy Tip: Press the tofu at least 30 minutes with a weighted plate — anything less and it releases water in the pan. Don't move the tofu cubes for 2 minutes per side or you tear the crust. Cook garlic in the empty pan after tofu — the residual fat picks up the browned bits.

Serves
2
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget-Friendly
Calories
310
Carbs
22g
Protein
24g
Fat
14g

Flavor Profile

🌱 Crunchy and golden from crispy tofu
🥦 Fresh and vibrant with stir-fried vegetables
🧄 Bold and savory with garlic-infused sauce
🥢 Umami-rich with tamari and sesame oil
🌶️ Lightly spiced for a balanced kick

Ingredients

🍽️ 8 oz extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed
🛢️ 1 tbsp sesame oil
🥢 2 tbsp tamari
🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
🌶️ 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
🥦 1 cup broccoli florets
🌶️ 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
🥕 1/2 cup julienned carrots
🥄 1 tsp rice vinegar
🌿 1 tbsp sesame seeds, for garnish
🧅 1 tbsp chopped scallions

Instructions

01

Press tofu dry and cut into cubes. Sear in sesame oil over medium-high heat until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove and set aside.

02

In the same skillet, stir-fry garlic, red pepper flakes, and vegetables for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.

03

Return tofu to the pan, add tamari and rice vinegar, and toss for 1-2 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

🧬 Food Science

Tofu originated in China over 2,000 years ago and remains a dietary staple across Asia. Sesame seeds are packed with lignans, compounds linked to heart health and balanced cholesterol levels.

Pair It

🥂 A chilled green tea or a light Riesling pairs well with the flavors.
🍽️ Pair with steamed edamame for added protein, or serve with pickled ginger for a refreshing contrast.